POWER PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE

Job Description

SUMMARY

Under direct supervision, performs skilled level of work in the operation of fossil fueled engines, electric generators, and all associated equipment. Performs load forecasting and scheduling; serves as plant operator in charge of his shift, or on relief duty. Supplemental work includes building and fabricating equipment and resources for use throughout the City and providing mechanical support of City fleet. Creativity and innovation encouraged.

HOURS: (4) 10-hour shifts either Monday-Thursday (normally) or Tuesday-Friday (on call weeks) from 7AM-5PM.

REQUIREMENTS

The information below outlines requirements for the position. Unless otherwise noted, all requirements apply to each level.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma or GED required

KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge of the principals of plant operations involving thermal, chemical, mechanical, and electric characteristics of the overall plant cycle.

Safe driving practices and knowledge of state and local laws pertaining to the operation of motor vehicles on streets, roads, and highways.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Eligibility to participate in an approved apprentice program required.

Construction, woodworking, plumbing, and/or painting experience, preferred.

LICENSURE

Kansas Class A CDL required within one year. CDL Permit required upon hire.

CERTIFICATION

Eligible to complete Power Plant Apprenticeship Program

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works inside with temperature extremes up to 130 degrees in generator operating room. The employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions, including temperature extremes. The employee may regularly be exposed to fumes, diesel fuel, lube oils and other chemicals and toxins. The employee will be exposed to mechanical and electrical hazards. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; is occasionally loud.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Performs custodial and grounds maintenance, provides plant security, answers phones and dispatches crews for the electrical department.

Performs startup and shutdown of dual fueled engines, generators, and ancillary equipment.

Takes periodic readings and logs data, acknowledges system alarms, monitors equipment metering and gauges and takes corrective action when necessary.

Checks all rotating equipment for proper temperatures, levels, vibration, and fluid leakage and takes hourly equipment readings, lubricates, and cleans rotating equipment as required.

Operates computers and communications equipment for dispatching and logging purposes, operates electric SCADA system.

Performs basic plant maintenance, equipment maintenance, and record keeping.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with other employees, supervisors, and the public.

Performs other duties as assigned.